Well, yes and no.
The landing gear is run by hydraulics. It could have been a simple proportioning valve that got stuck.

Now for the interesting part: The people I've known that are pilots, and have piloted for major airlines, or know someone that has, have said that 'If you knew of all of the things that fail during a flight, you'd never fly again'
But, don't fear. Most of the systems on an airplane this size are double and triple redundant.
That means if one hydraulic system, for example fails, there are 2 more to back it up. This ensures that it makes it home safely.
In some cases, the final resort is a small turbine core that pops out of the plane and uses the rushing air to spin it, and its connected to a generator and or a hydraulic pump.

The F-4 Phantoms were famous for having this particular redundency.

(This comment was modified on Sep 22, 2005 01:38 AM)

Well, that makes me feel better. Thank you !!

I never get nervous when I have to fly. But, when my friends or family fly, I worry myself sick. Everybody knows that I MUST be called the moment they get into the airport. I'll even buy them a $5 calling card if I have to.

hell no, I woudnt it was I think a piece that broke or sumin. (thats why the piece/wheel twisted) The airline picked this maker over boing or w/e. I was actually hoping for the plane to burst in flames or the front wheel fall off and more sparks, im a lil crazed like that. But I must say they hire exalent poilets!!

I would of been sh*ting my pants knowing there was a problem for over 3 hours



(This comment was modified on Sep 22, 2005 01:40 AM)

Thank you !!

Ahhhhh.....that's where You are mistaken!! let Sarah and I come roll You into flight and You will understand...We ARE meant to fly!!!

Whoa! What a weird thought!